#SPM2025

September is Suicide Prevention Month. For many, it’s a time filled with hard but necessary conversations. It’s also a reminder that behind every smile, every busy schedule, and every “I’m fine,” there may be a story we don’t know. While we shouldn’t wait for a designated month or media campaign to have these discussions, we can use moments like this and even the trending hashtags that catch people’s attention as opportunities to start meaningful conversations.

Mental health is deeply personal. It’s also universal. Every single one of us has a mind that needs care just as much as our bodies do. Yet, too often, we shy away from talking about the tough parts, the struggles with depression, anxiety, trauma, and thoughts that feel too heavy to carry alone.

This month isn’t just about awareness; it’s about action. It’s about reminding ourselves and each other that there is hope, that healing is possible, and that nobody needs to go through the darkest nights by themselves.

Why This Conversation Matters

Suicide is the second leading cause of death among young people and impacts families, friends, and communities in ways that last a lifetime. And yet, the most powerful tool we have against it is something simple: connection.

When people feel seen, heard, and supported, the weight becomes lighter. Small moments like a text message, a walk with a friend, a genuine “how are you, really?” can save lives.

Tips for Supporting Your Own Mental Health

• Talk About It: Find someone you trust and share how you feel. Silence can make pain heavier, but talking lightens the load.

• Create a Routine: Our brains love structure. Simple things like consistent sleep, balanced meals, and movement can do wonders.

• Limit the Scroll: social media can fuel comparison and isolation. Give yourself permission to log off when it feels like too much.

• Write It Out: Journaling doesn’t have to be fancy, just jotting down thoughts can help untangle what feels overwhelming.

• Practice Self-Compassion: You don’t have to be productive to be worthy. Rest, cry, breathe; those are victories too.

Tips for Supporting Others

• Listen More Than You Speak: Sometimes people don’t need advice; they just need to be heard.

• Check In Regularly: Even a quick, “Hey, I was thinking of you,” shows someone they’re not alone.

• Avoid Judgment: Replace “why would you feel that way?” with “thank you for telling me.”

• Encourage Professional Help: Remind them that therapy, support groups, and hotlines exist for a reason, because they work.

Resources You Can Share or Use

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.) – Call or text 988 if you or someone you know is in crisis. Available 24/7.

• Crisis Text Line – Text HOME to 741741 for free, confidential support.

• NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) – nami.org offers education, advocacy, and peer support.

• The Trevor Project (for LGBTQ+ youth) – Call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678678.

A Gentle Reminder

If you’re reading this and you’ve been hurting quietly, please know this: you are not a burden, you are not alone, and you matter more than you realize. Reaching out for help does not make you weak, it makes you courageous.

And if you love someone who is struggling, your care may not “fix” everything, but it can help them hold on until they find their own strength again.

This September let’s be brave enough to talk about mental health openly and kind enough to listen without judgment. Together, we can turn awareness into hope, and hope into healing.

Until next time, stay informed, stay safe, and watch out for one another. Because when we know better, we protect better.

Need help or have questions?

📞 Call our office at 305-470-1670

🌐 Visit us online at www.citizenscrimewatch.org